The Baruch College Faculty Handbook

The Writing Center: Myths and Facts

Last updated on 8/4/2010

Myth:  The Writing Center is only for students in English courses.

Fact: The Writing Center is open to all students at Baruch College.

 

Myth:  The Writing Center does not support students with ESL issues.

Fact:  The Writing Center welcomes all Baruch undergraduates especially those (native and non-native speakers alike) who are learning to write in standard written American English. In fact, several Writing Center tutors are ESL writing specialists.

 

Myth:  The Writing Center does not offer online writing support.

Fact:  The Writing Center does offer online writing support. In addition to receiving face-to-face consulting, students are able to e-mail their assignments for both synchronous (online chat) and asynchronous feedback. Online writing support is accessed through the Writing Center’s online appointment system at www.baruch.cuny.edu/writingcenter.

 

Myth:  The Writing Center offers only one appointment per student per week.

Fact:  Students may schedule one appointment per week via the Writing Center’s website. However, if a next-day or same-day appointment is available, students can obtain an appointment by calling the front desk (646-312-4012) or visiting the Writing Center (Newman Vertical Campus, Room 8-185).

 

Myth:  Consultants have a different agenda from professors.

Fact:  Consultants are very sensitive to helping students fulfill their professors’ assignments. Professors can help: Encourage students to bring their assignments to the Writing Center; give clear feedback on writing assignments that can be revised; and let students know how their writing will be evaluated. A referral form is available on the website: http://www.baruch.cuny.edu/writingcenter/facultyGuide_student.htm

 

Myth:  Instructors and professors have no way of knowing what consultants work on with their students.

Fact:  Each Writing Center session is documented in a Session Report and e-mailed to a professor/instructor within 72 hours. Students have access to their Session Reports via the Writing Center’s website. Faculty are encouraged to contact consultants with questions and feedback.

 

For more information, visit the Writing Center’s website: http://www.baruch.cuny.edu/writingcenter/, or contact Keri Bertino, Director, Writing Center at keri.bertino@baruch.cuny.edu and (646) 312-4004.